Over 30 arrested in Kampala during disruptive operations targeting crime hotspots

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The Police in Kampala say they have arrested 34 suspects during a series of disruptive operations across various divisions in the city aimed at curbing criminal activities, improving public safety and dismantling criminal networks.

Kampala Metropolitan Police (KMP) deputy police spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire on April 28, 2026, said during these operations carried out in Kabalagala, Kira, Old Kampala, and Wandegeya policing areas, several suspected criminals were arrested from identified crime hotspots and black spots linked to robberies, narcotics and possession of suspected stolen property.

“Additionally, disruptive operations in Bukasa, Nsambya West, and Buyondo Zone led to the arrest of several suspects linked to attacks on motorists and other criminal activities. The suspects were charged and are pending court appearance,” he said.

Some of the suspects during a series of disruptive operations across various divisions in the city aimed at curbing criminal activities. (Credit: Police)

In Kira, Owoyesigyire said an operation conducted in Kyaliwajjala Zone, Namugongo division, resulted in the arrest of 11 suspects linked to robberies in the area. Exhibits recovered included suspected stolen property, narcotic substances, knives, a pickaxe and household items believed to be stolen.

The Old Kampala Police Division also carried out operations in Nakulabye and Kasubi, leading to the arrest of eight suspects from known narcotics-selling points and criminal hideouts.

“Similarly, Wandegeya Police Division conducted an operation in Kikoni, Kapapali, and Old Mulago areas, where fifteen suspects were arrested for suspected involvement in criminal activities, including shop break-ins and unlawful gatherings around bars during late hours,” Owoyesigyire added.

He said all the suspects are undergoing screening, investigations, and legal processing. 

“KMP remains committed to sustained disruptive operations, community policing, regular patrols, and working closely with local leaders to ensure safety and security for all residents,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Owoyesigyire said in Kabalagala, Police responded to an electrocution incident in Kisasizi Zone, Kibuli Parish, where one Dominic Olowo, a 36-year-old mason, was electrocuted after allegedly touching a clothes-hanging wire. The body was conveyed to City Mortuary Mulago for postmortem as investigations continue to establish the source of the electric current.

Crime report

While releasing the Annual Crime Report for 2025 in April this year, the Inspector General of Police, Abbas Byakagaba, said a total of 196,405 cases were reported to Police compared to 218,715 in 2024, which represents a 10.2% reduction.

Out of the reported cases, 115,301 were submitted to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, from which 79,291 were taken to Court. A total of 24,899 cases secured convictions, with 31,732 persons convicted and sentenced.

Out of the 32 policing regions in Uganda, KMP South registered the highest number of cases with 13,950, followed by Rwizi with 13,416, KMP North with 13,340, North Kyoga with 12,728 and KMP East with 10,388.

At district/divisional level, Wakiso Police Division registered the highest number of cases with 3,177, followed by Luweero Police Station with 3,123, Mukono Police Division with 2,880, Tororo Police Station with 2,831 and Ntungamo Police Station with 2,825.